Euonymus fortunei 'Coloratus'

Purpleleaf Wintercreeper

Euonymus fortunei ‘Coloratus’ — commonly called Purple Wintercreeper — is a vigorous, evergreen groundcover valued for its dense habit and seasonal color change. It forms a spreading mat of glossy, dark green leaves that turn deep burgundy to purple in fall and winter, providing strong cold-season interest. It can also climb when given support, adding versatility to its use in the landscape.

Mature Size:
Width: Spreading indefinitely
Height: 6–12 in (as groundcover); can climb higher with support

USDA Zones: 4a–9b
Light: Full sun to full shade
Soil: Average, well-drained soils; highly adaptable
Water: Moderate; drought tolerant once established

Wildlife: Provides cover for small wildlife; generally not favored by deer

Features & Landscape Uses:
Form: Low, spreading evergreen groundcover; can climb if supported
Foliage turns deep purple to burgundy in fall and winter
Excellent for erosion control, slopes, underplanting, and mass coverage
Tolerates shade, making it useful under trees
Highly adaptable to a wide range of conditions

Maintenance:
Trim as needed to control spread or shape
Can be aggressive; monitor and manage where needed
Tolerates shearing and pruning

Plant type

Broadleaf Evergreen, Groundcover

Height

6-12"

Width

1-3'

Hardiness zones

4–9

Sunlight

Full Shade, Full Sun, Partial Shade

Bloom time

Spring

Leaf color

Dark Green

Fall color

Dark Red

Soil

Well Drained

Shape

Ground Cover, Wide Spreading

Bark

Corky

Drought tolerant

Yes